MESSAGE FROM THE DEMOCRATIC WHIP

After four months in the majority, House Republicans let another week go by without putting forward a plan to support job creation. Instead, they moved forward on a bill that could take away extended unemployment benefits for over four million Americans who need it the most, potentially harming families and our economy. The Democrats’ agenda stands in stark contrast to the Republicans’ priorities. We continue to focus on our Make It In America agenda to help put Americans back to work and ensure America’s families can succeed.

I was also disappointed with the drilling bills that Republicans passed this week. Americans are strained by the high price of gas, but it will take a comprehensive energy policy to relieve this burden. We must drill safely and responsibly, crack down on speculation and invest in clean energy technology. However, the Republicans’ “drill-only” plan will not solve our short-term or long-term challenges. And at a time when oil companies are making record profits, Republicans continue to block efforts to end unnecessary oil subsidies paid for by taxpayers.

This week, the House also passed an Intelligence Authorization bill to provide the U.S. intelligence community with resources they need to keep America safe. Democrats have a strong record of support for the intelligence community. We have devoted new and more resources to the intelligence community and we’re seeing results. The Obama administration has killed or captured hundreds of terrorists in Afghanistan and Pakistan, including the world’s most notorious terrorist and mastermind of the 9/11 attacks, Osama bin Laden. We are also stopping others from plotting and attacking our nation, and the death of bin Laden furthers disrupts their organization. We remain committed to providing the intelligence community with every resource that will help crack down on terrorism and protect our nation.

Sincerely yours,

STENY H. HOYER

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